Wilson, Murphy to split duties behind plate
Oklahoma City manager
Bill Haselman — a former catcher — likes what he’s seen in a brief period from the Dodgers’ catchers. Now it’s just about finding them enough playing time.
Bobby Wilson is a veteran who has spent significant time in the big leagues. He was in Thursday’s starting lineup.
Jack Murphy has yet to play in the majors, but he’s a smart catcher and strong defender. He’s also a fan favorite in OKC.
“They’re smart, they call good games and are pretty good receivers, too,” Haselman said. “They do all of the defensive stuff really well. They know how to communicate with pitchers. They’re laid back enough where they’re in control of the situation.”
Haselman said it’s likely the two catchers will rotate games in the lineup, but Wilson might see more time as things shake out.
Wilson, 33, has played 324 games in the big leagues.
He was nearly the backup in Los Angeles during spring training, but the club ultimately went with Austin Barnes.
Murphy, a Princeton graduate who turned 29 Thursday, caught 73 games last season for OKC.
Segedin finds WBC beneficial
Rob Segedin is already looking ahead four years.
After playing for Italy in the World Baseball Classic this spring, Segedin has already started to recruit players to join him the next year of the event.
“People don’t realize how fun it is until you get there,” Segedin said.
Italy didn’t advance past the opening round, but it had an exciting walk-off win against Mexico, which featured Oklahoma City outfielder Alex Verdugo.
Segedin, a Pacific Coast League All-Star in 2016, said the experience is beneficial for young players.
“It was one of the best weeks I’ve ever had playing baseball,” Segedin said.